Church Worship Ministries
“Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!” Psalm 47:6
Traditional Worship Service
Our Traditional worship service follows formal, liturgical worship style of Methodists worldwide. Prayers, affirmations of faith, scripture reading, traditional hymns, musical solos/offerings, and pastor’s sermon will all be a part of worship each week, following a standard worship order. The Traditional service utilizes acolytes, altar paraments and banners, ushers, greeters, and altar flowers. We follow the worship order in printed bulletins and sing from hymn books located in the pews. Communion is normally served on the first Sunday. The United Methodist Church maintains an open table of which all Christians are invited to partake.
We meet on the upper/main level of the church in the historic Sanctuary, which boasts plenty of seating, including a balcony, impressive acoustics, grand piano and organ, full pulpit, and original adornments like the beautiful stained-glass windows. Access is a straight-shot from our north side door (drive up the hill and use the drop-off under the overhang.)
Adelle Gunn is our Traditional Worship Service chairperson. Contact Adelle or the church office for more information on the Traditional service.
Contemporary Worship Service
The contemporary service is a less liturgical worship service that emphasizes people coming as they are in a relaxed atmosphere. We pray, read scripture, praise God through modern songs, and listen to a message from the Pastor. Words to songs and readings are projected on a screen which we find especially helpful for those who have difficulty holding song books or with vision problems. Communion is normally served on the first Sunday. The United Methodist Church maintains an open table of which all Christians are invited to partake.
We meet in the Orrick Chapel Fellowship Hall on the lower level of the church which has a direct, flat entrance from the parking lot/overhang drop-off on the back of the church. Upon entering the Fellowship Hall, you will encounter friendly folks and a Welcome table. The table has a variety of materials relating to the worship service and our church. You may write down joys and concerns for prayer, sign-up to help in the service and church, or request contact by the Church.
Frances Palmateer is our Contemporary Worship Service chairperson. Contact Frances or the church office for any questions concerning the Contemporary service.
Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir leads liturgical United Methodist worship at our Traditional 8:30 a.m. service through the Word, Liturgy, and Song. Accomplished singers, including Shenandoah University graduate students, utilize a broad repertoire of excellent soprano, alto, tenor and bass (SATB) sacred music from September through May. Soloists and ensembles sing throughout the summer. The choir and congregation are accompanied by a three manual Allen organ, Kawai grand piano, hand bells, and chimes. Guest string, woodwind, brass, and percussion ensembles are brought in throughout the Christian year on special Sundays as well as guest artists. We invite all to join in this central part of our worship.
Traditional Worship Music Director is David Renner.
Handbells
Hand Bell choirs are open to adults and youth, no music background required. The bell choir practices weekly and rings once a month at the Traditional Worship Service.
The Bell Choirs are directed by Jacquetta Owen. There are also opportunities to join community bell choirs directed by Jacquetta. Contact Jacquetta for more information!
Praise Band
Music is an integral part of the Contemporary Praise Worship Service, allowing folks to raise their voices in worship of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Praise Band is made up of instrument players and singers alike and we are always looking for additional musicians! Musical styles range from bluegrass/country gospel, African American spirituals, Contemporary Praise songs, to some traditional songs. You can also catch the Praise Band sharing their gifts by leading music in other settings, such as a Christmas Carols hymn sing, in nursing home ministries, and when we hold special outdoor worship at the Newtown Commons.
John Clawson is the leader of the Praise Band. Contact John to join or with any questions!
